Viagem Ancestral

Bob Love's 'Viagem Ancestral' is a rich tapestry of cultural and historical references, woven together with a sense of spiritual and physical journeying. The song opens with a vivid image of Emperor Haile Selassie I, a significant figure in Rastafarian culture, participating in a samba dance while wearing modern Nike shoes. This juxtaposition of the ancient and the contemporary sets the tone for the rest of the song, which explores the connections between Africa and Brazil, particularly through the lens of the African diaspora.

The lyrics take the listener on an astral journey from Ethiopia to Bahia, Brazil, highlighting the cyclical nature of this voyage with the lines, 'When I was going, he was coming back / When he was coming back, I was going.' This suggests a continuous exchange of cultural and spiritual energy between the two regions. The mention of 'Catch a fire no bécão' is a nod to Bob Marley's iconic album 'Catch a Fire,' further emphasizing the influence of African and Caribbean culture on Brazilian music and identity.

Throughout the song, Bob Love references historical events and figures, such as the transatlantic slave trade ('No tombo do navio') and Queen Ginga of Angola, known for her resistance against Portuguese colonization. The imagery of dancing with Queen Ginga in Luanda and then leaping to Salvador, Brazil, underscores the deep-rooted connections between these places. The song also touches on the Afro-Brazilian experience, mentioning the Pelourinho neighborhood in Salvador, known for its vibrant cultural scene, and the Malês, African Muslim slaves who led a significant revolt in Bahia.

'Viagem Ancestral' is a celebration of African heritage and its enduring influence on Brazilian culture. It is a reminder of the resilience and creativity of the African diaspora, as well as a call to honor and remember the past while embracing the present.